Neglected Cancer Symptoms in Men

Cancer is a disease that no one wants to think about, but everyone should be vigilant about symptoms because cancer is most curable if treated in the earliest stages. Symptoms that could be cancer may very well be caused by other conditions, so it is important to see a doctor for correct diagnoses when symptoms are noticed.

Cancer symptoms often neglected by men, according to WebMD, include a breast mass, pain, changes in the testicles, changes in the lymph nodes, fever, weight loss without trying, abdominal pain and depression, fatigue, persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, changes in the skin, blood in places where it should not be, mouth changes, urinary problems and indigestion.

Breast Mass

Breast cancer is most commonly thought of as a cancer that affects women, but it can strike men also. Any new lump in the breast tissue should be checked by a physician. According to the American Cancer Society, other symptoms to be aware of include skin dimpling or puckering, nipple retraction, redness or scaling of the skin on the breast or the nipple and discharge from the nipple.

Pain

Pain can be a general symptom, often associated with aging, but it is also possibly a symptom of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, persistent pain should be checked by a physician.

Changes in Testicles

Testicles should be checked regularly. Change in testicle size, either swelling or shrinkage, could be a reason for concern. A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum should be reported to the doctor and examined.

Swelling of the Lymph Nodes

Lymph Nodes carry fluids throughout the body. A lump or swelling of the nodes in the neck, under the armpit or anywhere else in the body should be checked by a doctor.

Unexplained Fever

Fever is a symptom that occurs from several illnesses, including colds, flu or pneumonia. An unexplained fever may also be an indication of blood cancer.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight loss without an explanation can be a cause for concern because most people do not lose weight easily. Weight loss that cannot be explained by eating less or exercising more should be reported.

Abdominal Pain and Depression

Abdominal pain and depression have been linked to pancreatic cancer. Symptoms related to pancreatic cancer include jaundice and a change in the color of the stool (often gray).

Fatigue

Fatigue is a symptom that can be explained by many causes, so may be brushed off or ignored. If you feel extremely tired and rest does not make it better, check with the doctor. According to the American Cancer Society, fatigue can be a symptom of leukemia or cancers of the stomach or colon.

Persistent Cough

A persistent cough is another symptom that can have many causes, so may be overlooked as a cancer symptom. Coughs are related to flu, colds and allergies. A prolonged cough lasting over three or four weeks should be reported to a doctor.

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is a symptom that men may ignore and learn to live with. Trouble swallowing should be reported to doctor because it could be a signal of cancer of the esophagus.

Any symptom that concerns you should be reported to a doctor for proper diagnoses and treatment. Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about a medical situation, please contact a physician.

Resources:

WebMD

American Cancer Society

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